"Palazzo Ducale"
Palazzo Ducale - Doge's Palace Tip by sachara

The building of the Ducal Palace started in the 9th century. The palace was founded at the former Roman walls. The first building in Byzantine style was destroyed by a fire and several times reconstructed. Finally in 1340, the period of Gothic art, the palace got its present structure.

The great arches at the groundfloor form the base for the long and delicate loggia along the two sides of the building at the first floor. The second floor has great windows and a central balcony.

The palace was the official residence of the Doges who ruled Venice from 697 to 1759.